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INSIGHTS > New Articles > INSIGHTS > 5) Keeping the interest of the citizens in mind, it is important to firm up a blueprint for price regulation of patented medicines in India. Critically analyze.(250 words)

5) Keeping the interest of the citizens in mind, it is important to firm up a blueprint for price regulation of patented medicines in India. Critically analyze.(250 words)

Pricing of patented medicines is a hotly debated topic in India. The unaffordable prices of patented medicines compromise equitable access to them and threaten the financial sustainability not only of patients but even that of the public health system. The question is related to GS 3 syllabus under the following heading-

The question wants us to dig deep into the drug pricing regime in India and bring out the need and implications of pricing of patented pharmaceuticals drugs in India.

Directive word

Critically analyse- We have to identify the main aspects of the question and frame our answer accordingly. Here we have to brainstorm on the pros and cons of regulated pricing of patented medicines in India while discussing the need and implications for such a step. We have to present our personal opinion on the issue.

Structure of the answer

Introduction– mention the National List of Essential Medicines, inserted as Schedule-I of the DPCO, which regulates (caps) the prices of essential medicines in India, and derives its powers from the essential commodities act, 1955.

Body-

Bring out the need for/ pros of regulating the price of patented medicines in India (poor affordability of patients, high disease burden, exorbitant prices of patented drugs, forcing to enter into voluntary licensing, forcing to gain from economies of scale etc.). Give examples of drugs which have entered into controversies/ litigation on account of their high prices (e.g Erlotinib, Sofosbuvir, Imatinib etc.

Discuss the cons of regulating the price of patented medicines in India.

e.g high development costs of new drugs which need to be recovered, stifling of innovation, the risk of drastically reducing the supply of patented drugs etc.

Mention India’s compliance to TRIPS agreement even after invoking the provision of compulsory licensing and denying evergreening of patents. Also, mention the sustainable development goals which affirm the right of developing countries to utilise the TRIPS agreement flexibilities to ensure access to new medicines for all.

Conclusion- Based on your convictions and the above-held discussion, form a fair and balanced opinion on the given issue